The Italian Government Scholarships 2026–2027 are now open for international students and Italian citizens living abroad who want to pursue higher education, research, or language studies in Italy. Funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), these scholarships support global academic collaboration while promoting Italian culture, language, and innovation. For the 2026–2027 academic year, the program offers financial support for Master’s degrees, PhD programs, research projects, AFAM (Arts, Music and Dance) programs, and Italian language courses at recognized universities and institutions across Italy. The scholarship includes a stipend, health insurance, and the possibility of tuition fee exemptions.

Italian Government Scholarship 2026-Overview

• Host Country: Italy
• Scholarship Authority: Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
• Study Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, AFAM, Language & Culture Courses, Research
• Scholarship Duration: Up to 9 months (renewable for eligible programs)
• Funding Type: Fully Funded- Italian Government-funded scholarship
• Eligible Applicants: International students and Italian citizens living abroad
• Application Deadline: 26 March 2026 (14:00 CET)

Available Programs and Fields of Study in Italy Scholarships

Applicants can pursue a wide range of academic disciplines offered by Italian universities and institutions. Available program types include:

• Master’s Degree Programs (Laurea Magistrale)
• PhD Programs
• Research Projects under Academic Supervision
• Higher Education for Fine Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)
• Italian Language and Culture Courses
• Joint or Double Degree Programs with international universities

Fields generally available include:

• Engineering and Technology
• Natural Sciences
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Social Sciences and Political Science
• Economics and Business
• Humanities and Languages
• International Relations
• Arts, Music, and Design

The exact fields depend on the selected university or research institution.

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Eligibility Criteria for MAECI Scholarship Program

To apply for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026–2027, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Academic Requirements

• Applicants must hold the required academic qualification for the chosen program.
• For Master’s programs, a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to an Italian Laurea Triennale is required.

Age Limits

• Master’s, AFAM, and language courses: under 28 years
• PhD programs: under 30 years
• Research projects: under 40 years

Language Requirements

• Italian-taught programs require B2 level Italian proficiency (CEFR).
• English-taught programs require B2 level English proficiency.
• Research projects and PhD programs may not require language proof depending on the institution.

Other Conditions

Applicants must:

• Hold a valid passport or identification document.
• Not already be enrolled in an Italian university degree program.
• Apply for the first year of the chosen program.

These conditions must be fulfilled at the time of application.

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Application Process for Study Abroad in Italy Scholarships

Follow these steps to apply for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026–2027:

Step 1: Visit the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Scholarship on official webpage and review the MAECI Fully funded scholarship guidelines carefully.

Click Here to Visit the MAECI Scholarship in Italy 2026

Step 2: Submit the Italian Government International Scholarships in Europe via the Study in Italy portal.

Click Here to Apply Now to MAECI Italy Scholarships in Europe for International Students 2026

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Scholarship Benefits

The Italian Government Scholarships provide generous financial support to international students studying in Italy.

Main Benefits

• Total stipend: €10,800 for 9 months
• Paid in three instalments
• Health insurance coverage
• Potential tuition fee exemption at many universities
• Access to academic and research facilities
• Opportunity to study at top Italian universities

The stipend is typically distributed as:

• €5,500 first installment
• €2,300 second installment
• €3,000 final installment

For language courses, recipients receive €3,600 for 3 months.

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Apply Now-Study in Italy for Free

The Italian Government Scholarships 2026–2027 provide an excellent opportunity for international students to study in one of Europe’s most culturally rich and academically respected countries. With generous financial support, access to prestigious universities, and the chance to experience Italy’s academic environment, this scholarship is highly attractive to students worldwide.

Click Here to Explore the Official Call for Italian Government Scholarships to Study in Europe 2026

Also Check: List of Fully Funded Scholarships to Study Abroad 2026

FAQs – Italian Government Scholarships

Is the Italian Government Scholarship fully funded?

The scholarship provides a €10,800 stipend, health insurance, and potential tuition fee exemptions, making it a strong financial support package.

Can I apply without IELTS?

Yes, if your chosen program is taught in Italian or if you provide alternative proof of English proficiency equivalent to B2 level.

Do I need admission before applying?

Admission requirements depend on the program. PhD applicants must provide an admission letter, while other applicants may submit it later if requested.

Who can apply?

International students from eligible countries and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) can apply.

When is the deadline?

The application deadline for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026–2027 is 26 March 2026.

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